Australia selectors look beyond exiled leaders and focus on World Cup

"This period is set to include a significant amount of limited-overs cricket, including the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in England and Wales. For that reason, there has been a bit of a focus in this contracting period on white-ball cricket, as we look ahead to trying to win back-to-back World Cups."

The announcement gives an indication as to who Hohns' panel have in mind to be part of Australia's World Cup defence in England.

There are eight players who have not worn the baggy green earning central contracts, while injured pace ace James Pattinson, who last played for Australia in February 2016, drops off for the first time since 2010-11.

There were seven changes from the 2017-18 group with Jackson Bird, Hilton Cartwright, Matthew Wade and Adam Zampa all losing their deals.

Zampa's omission means he faces a difficult task to retain his status as Australia's premier slow bowler in the 50-over game.

Shaun Marsh returned to the list after playing a pivotal role in Australia regaining the Ashes, though the batting depth is a concern with Smith and Warner absent after accepting 12-month bans.

Opener Matt Renshaw held his contract with Cameron Bancroft ineligible after his role in the ball tampering affair.

Newly appointed skipper Tim Paine is back for the first time in seven years and is set to rank highly on CA's formula, which takes into consideration the likelihood a player will be selected in the contract period.

And Alex Carey has been anointed as Paine's understudy, joining the list for the first time after a strong domestic season for South Australia and the Adelaide Strikers.

"This is an exciting opportunity for these players, who all deserve to be on this list,” Hohns said.

"Andrew (Tye) is an experienced bowler, who has been able to translate strong domestic performances onto the international stage in white-ball cricket.

"Alex (Carey) is the second wicket-keeper in this squad, alongside Tim Paine. He is a promising young player who has had a strong domestic summer and performed well in his international opportunities to date with bat and gloves.